Napier: Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf confirmed that experienced all-rounder Shoaib Malik will not play in the third and final Test against New Zealand in Napier due to inconsistent form.

Yousuf told a news channel that Faisal Iqbal would play in place of Malik in Napier. Malik has struggled to get big scores in the first two Tests despite getting starts.

The third Test starts from December 11 with the series tied 1-1.

Yousuf rubbished media reports which claimed that he insisted on a team of his own choice for the Australian tour.

"I was consulted by chief selector and team management about the team for the Australian tour and I gave them my views as captain but I have not insisted on anyone being dropped or anyone being included in the team," Yousuf said.

He made it clear that he had not gone after the captaincy but since he was asked to fulfill this responsibility he was trying to do it with the best of his ability.

"It is an honour to lead Pakistan and my only intention is the best and deserving players should play for the national team. Who am I to dictate anything to the team management or selectors?" he asked.

"The team really will have to work hard in many areas and improve performance in the last Test in Napier and in Australia which will be a tough series for us," he added.